A gold metal and enamel device 1 1/4 inches (3.18 cm) in height consisting of a wavy blue U-shaped scroll inscribed in gold letters with the motto "WITH HONOR WE SERVE," the ends turned inward and conjoined with the lower side petals of a blue fleur-de-lis with central section formed by a white spearhead, the shaft of the spear surmounted below the head by a blue disc bearing a gold griffin segreant and terminating in base upon the center of the scroll.
The griffin, a symbol of vigilance and readiness, is adapted from the crest of the Michigan Army National Guard and the spear at center symbolizes the defensive mission of the National Guard. The wavy blue scroll signifies the waters in and around Michigan and the simulated fleur-de-lis alludes to the French heritage of the state.
The distinctive unit insignia was originally approved for Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment and noncolor bearing units of the Michigan Army National Guard on 4 November 1971. The insignia was redesignated effective 30 December 1983, for Headquarters, State Area Command, Michigan Army National Guard. It was redesignated for the Michigan Army National Guard Element, Joint Force Headquarters and amended to update the description effective 1 October 2003.